Living together in a common-law relationship offers flexibility and independence—but it also brings unique legal risks if your relationship ends. Without a clear agreement, you or your partner could face uncertainty about property, support, and financial responsibilities. At Tailor Law, our experienced family lawyers help clients in Mississauga, Toronto, and the GTA create, review, and enforce common-law relationship agreements ontario that protect your rights and your peace of mind.
Quick Answer: What Is a Common-Law Relationship Agreement in Ontario?
A common-law relationship agreement is a legally binding contract between partners who live together but are not married. It sets out how property, debts, and support will be handled if the relationship ends. In Ontario, these agreements provide clarity and security for both partners. Tailor Law’s lawyers ensure your agreement is fair, enforceable, and tailored to your needs.
Service Overview: Understanding Common-Law Relationship Agreements
A common-law relationship agreement is a written contract between two people living together in a conjugal relationship without being married. It covers important financial and personal issues, helping both partners avoid uncertainty and conflict.
Why Common-Law Relationship Agreements Matter
- Clarifies property and financial rights
- Protects both partners from unexpected outcomes
- Reduces the risk of costly, stressful disputes
- Provides certainty about support, debts, and contributions
How Common-Law Relationship Agreements Work in Ontario
- Customizable: Agreements can address property division, spousal support, debt allocation, and other key issues.
- Legal Requirements: Both partners should provide full financial disclosure. The agreement must be in writing, signed, and witnessed.
- Independent Legal Advice: Strongly recommended for both parties to ensure fairness and enforceability.
- Changing Agreements: Agreements can be updated if both partners consent or if circumstances change significantly.
- Enforcement: Courts in Ontario routinely uphold fair, properly executed common-law relationship agreements.
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Why Choose Tailor Law for Your Common-Law Relationship Agreement
- 10+ Years of Family Law Experience: Our lawyers have drafted, reviewed, and enforced hundreds of common-law agreements for clients across Mississauga, Toronto, and the GTA.
- Personalized, Practical Guidance: We listen to your goals, explain your options, and tailor every agreement to your unique circumstances.
- Proven Results: Whether you’re just moving in or have been together for years, we help protect your interests and avoid future disputes.
- Comprehensive Support: From negotiation and disclosure to signing and enforcement, we’re with you every step of the way.
- Multilingual Team: Serving the diverse communities of the GTA in multiple languages.
How We’re Different
| Feature | Tailor Law PC | Other Firms |
| Transparent Billing | ✔ Upfront, clear pricing | ✖ Hidden or unclear fees |
| Mediation & Litigation Expertise | ✔ Skilled in both | ✖ Often limited to one |
| 24/7 Consultations | ✔ Flexible, urgent support | ✖ Limited hours |
| Personalized Strategies | ✔ Tailored to your unique case | ✖ Generic, templated service |
| Multilingual Services | ✔ Languages for GTA communities | ✖ English only |
| Free Initial Consultation | ✔ No obligation, honest advice | ✖ Paid first meeting |
Our Process: How Tailor Law Handles Common-Law Relationship Agreements in Ontario
- Free Consultation:
- We listen to your story, explain your rights, and discuss your goals for the agreement.
- Financial Disclosure:
- We help you gather and exchange necessary financial documents to ensure transparency and fairness.
- Drafting & Negotiation:
- Our lawyers draft a comprehensive agreement, negotiate terms with your partner or their lawyer, and address all key issues.
- Independent Legal Advice:
- We ensure you understand every clause and, if needed, refer you for independent legal advice.
- Finalization & Enforcement:
- We oversee signing, witnessing, and provide ongoing support if enforcement or changes are needed.
Take the First Step – Protect Your Rights in a Common-Law Relationship
Don’t leave your future to chance. Call (905) 366-0202 or book a confidential consultation online. Our lawyers are available 24/7, and your first meeting is always free.
Reviews & Testimonials
“Tailor Law made sure our common-law agreement was fair and protected both of us. Their lawyers explained everything clearly.”
— K.P., Mississauga
“I appreciated their professionalism and honest advice. Now I feel secure about my rights.”
— G.R., Toronto
“We avoided future conflict by setting clear expectations from the start. Tailor Law’s team was thorough and supportive.”
— S.L., Brampton
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Frequently Asked Questions About Common-Law Relationship Agreements in Ontario
1. Who should get a common-law relationship agreement?
Any unmarried couple living together or planning to live together can benefit from an agreement.
2. What can be included?
Property division, spousal support, debts, day-to-day finances, and other important issues.
3. Is a common-law agreement legally binding?
Yes, if properly drafted, signed, and witnessed. Courts usually enforce fair agreements.
4. Can we use the same lawyer?
No. Each partner should have their own lawyer for independent advice and fairness.
5. Can we change the agreement later?
Yes, if both partners agree or if circumstances change significantly.
6. What if we separate without an agreement?
You may face uncertainty or expensive disputes. An agreement helps avoid these risks.
7. Can same-sex couples have a common-law agreement?
Absolutely. The law applies equally to all couples in Ontario.
8. How much does a common-law agreement cost?
Fees depend on complexity. Tailor Law offers transparent, upfront pricing and payment plans. Your first consultation is free.
9. What if one partner won’t sign?
You cannot force someone to sign, but our lawyers can help explain the benefits and negotiate terms.
10. Can a common-law agreement cover children?
While you can address parenting and support expectations, child-related issues must be determined in the child’s best interests at the time of separation.
Lawyer Bio: Deepa Tailor
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Deepa Tailor, H.BSc, J.D.
Managing Lawyer, Tailor Law Professional Corporation
Deepa Tailor is a respected family lawyer with an H.BSc and J.D., and over a decade of experience helping common-law couples protect their rights. A graduate of the University of Windsor Faculty of Law and a member of the Law Society of Ontario, Deepa is known for her practical, client-focused approach.
This content was legally reviewed by Deepa Tailor, Managing Lawyer at Tailor Law PC.
Take Action Now – Secure Your Relationship and Your Rights
Don’t risk your future or your peace of mind. Call (905) 366-0202 or book your free consultation online now. Our experienced family law team is ready to help—24/7.
